The Shittim, or Shittah tree, is a significant plant mentioned in the Bible, known for its durable and valuable wood. The Hebrew word "shittim" is often translated as "acacia," referring to a group of thorny trees and shrubs native to the Middle East and Africa. The wood of the Shittim tree was highly prized in ancient times for its strength and resistance to decay, making it an ideal material for construction and crafting sacred objects.

Biblical References:

1. Construction of the Tabernacle: The Shittim wood is prominently mentioned in the construction of the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings. In Exodus 25:10, God instructs Moses, "They are to make an ark of acacia wood—two and a half cubits long, a cubit and a half wide, and a cubit and a half high." The Ark of the Covenant, the table for the showbread, the altar of incense, and the framework of the Tabernacle itself were all made from Shittim wood (Exodus 25:23, 26:15, 30:1).

2. Symbol of Strength and Endurance: The use of Shittim wood in the Tabernacle symbolizes strength and endurance, reflecting the enduring covenant between God and His people. The wood's resistance to decay is emblematic of the eternal nature of God's promises.

3. Location and Significance: The name "Shittim" also refers to a location in the plains of Moab, where the Israelites camped before crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land (Numbers 25:1, Joshua 2:1). This site holds historical and spiritual significance as the final encampment of the Israelites before their entry into Canaan.

4. Prophetic Imagery: In Isaiah 41:19, the prophet speaks of a future restoration, saying, "I will plant in the wilderness the cedar, the acacia, the myrtle, and the olive; I will set in the desert the cypress, the plane, and the pine together." Here, the acacia (Shittah) tree is part of a vision of renewal and divine blessing, symbolizing God's provision and the transformation of desolation into abundance.

Cultural and Historical Context:

The Shittim tree, likely a species of Acacia, was well-suited to the arid climate of the Sinai Peninsula and surrounding regions. Its wood was not only used for sacred purposes but also for everyday items due to its availability and durability. The tree's thorns and resilience in harsh environments may also serve as a metaphor for the trials and perseverance of the Israelites during their journey to the Promised Land.

In summary, the Shittim/Shittah tree holds a place of prominence in biblical history and theology, representing both the practical and spiritual aspects of God's relationship with His people. Its wood, used in the construction of the Tabernacle, underscores the themes of strength, endurance, and divine presence throughout the biblical narrative.Shittim Shittah Tree

(Heb. shittah, the thorny), is without doubt correctly referred to some species of Acacia , of which three or four kinds occur in the Bible lands. The woof of this tree --perhaps the Acacia seyal is more definitely signified --was extensively employed in the construction of the tabernacle. See Exod 25,26,36,37,38. (This tree is sometimes three or four feet in diameter (Tristram). The wood is close-grained and hard, of a fine orange-brown color, and admirably adapted to cabinet work. --ED.) The A. seyal is very common in some parts of the peninsula of Sinai. It yields the well-known substance called gum arabic, which is obtained by incisions in the bark, but it is impossible to say whether the ancient Jews were acquainted with its use. From the tangled thicket into which the stem of this tree expands, Stanley well remarks that hence is to be traced the use of the plural form of the Heb. noun shittim , the singular number occurring once only in the Bible. This acacia must not be confounded with the tree (Robinia pseudo-acacia) popularly known by this name in England, which is a North American plant, and belongs to a different genus and suborder. The true acacias belong to the order Leguminosae , sub-order Mimoseae .

7848. shittah -- acacia (a tree and a wood)
... Word Origin of uncertain derivation Definition acacia (a tree and a wood)
NASB Word Usage acacia (28). shittah, shittim. Feminine ...
/hebrew/7848.htm - 6k

The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... But then, saith God, 'I will plant in the wilderness,' that is, in the church that
is now bewildered, 'the cedar, the shittah tree, the myrtle, and the oil tree ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy city or the.htm

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